Adult safeguarding is the term used to describe the function of protecting adults (aged 18 or over who appear to have health and social care needs) from abuse or neglect. It is a shared priority across a range of public services, but a key responsibility of the local authority.

An adult at risk may be a person who:

is elderly and frail due to ill health, physical disability or cognitive impairment

has a learning disability

has a physical disability and/or sensory impairment

has mental health needs, including dementia or a personality disorder

has a long term illness/ condition

misuses substances or alcohol

is a carer such as a family member/ friend who provides personal assistance and care to adults and is subject to abuse

is unable to demonstrate the capacity to make a decision and is in need of care and support

What is abuse?

Harm can include any of the following:

a single act or repeated acts

an act of neglect or a failure to act

multiple acts, e.g., an adult at risk may be neglected and also financially abused